Plateau State governor, Caleb Mutfwang, has urged the citizens to be hopeful and offer prayers for growth, peace and development, as Nigeria celebrates its 64th independence. He made the call in Jos at an inter-denominational service held at the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA) headquarters.

The governor had also, on Friday, at the Special Jumaat Central Mosque implored Muslims to pray for those in authority. Represented by the Commissioner for Secondary Education, Muhammad Nyalun, the governor said the country is in dire need of prayers to overcome the challenges confronting it, noting that building Nigeria was a collective responsibility of all.

Chief Imam of the Central Mosque, Sheikh Gazhali Ismaila Adam, said Allah had commanded the followers to be obedient to their leaders. At the church service, Mutfwang encouraged citizens to re-affirm their commitment to unity, tolerance and respect for one another.

Represented by his deputy, Mrs Josephine Piyo, the governor said the day was also to honour the sacrifices of past leaders, who worked for the freedom and development of the country.

EQUALLY, Katsina State Governor Dikko Radda has called on his people to embrace patriotism and unity. In a message to mark the anniversary, Radda urged the citizenry to work with the government to overcome current socio-economic challenges and build a better state and country for all.

“Let us channel the same spirit of determination and hope that guided our forebears in their quest for independence. With our joint efforts, we can overcome current challenges and build a Katsina State and a Nigeria that we can all be proud of,” he charged.